Setting Up Utilities in Japan: A Native's Guide to Electricity, Water, Heat & Internet
Learn how to set up utilities in Japan after opening a bank account. Discover affordable options, assistance programs for foreigners, and insider tips from a native Japanese homeowner in Aomori.
Introduction: Understanding Your First Utility Bill
When I first bought my home in Hamada, a small town in Aomori Prefecture, I quickly realized that being a homeowner meant one thing: I was now responsible for everything. Every expense that comes with a house—electricity, water, heating, cooling, internet—suddenly landed on my shoulders. There's no landlord to call. No property manager to handle emergencies. Just me, a utility bill, and the reality of living in rural Japan's brutal winters and humid summers.
Now, after years of managing these costs and helping countless Westerners navigate this exact situation, I understand the confusion and anxiety that comes with setting up utilities in a country where the systems, language, and costs feel completely foreign. But here's what I want you to know from the start: it's not as complicated as it seems, and there are more resources available to help you than you probably realize.
This is the fifth part of our Banking in Japan series here at JapanInsider, and if you've already opened your bank account (Part 4), you're ready for this critical next step. Setting up your utilities is often what makes Japan feel real—it's when you stop being a tourist and start being a resident. And that's exactly what we're going to walk through together.
Why Utilities Matter Before Anything Else
Before you buy furniture, before you invite friends over, before you settle into your new life in Japan, you need three fundamental things: electricity to power your life, water to drink and shower, and heat or cooling to survive the seasons. In Aomori, where winter temperatures drop to minus 10 degrees Celsius, this isn't theoretical—it's survival. And in summer, air conditioning shifts from luxury to necessity.
What many Westerners don't realize is that utility setup is deeply connected to your bank account. Your newly opened Japanese bank account isn't just for receiving salary or withdrawing cash—it's the foundation for automatic bill payments that will keep your utilities running smoothly. Most utility companies require a Japanese bank account for convenient payment methods, and understanding this connection is what separates a smooth transition from a stressful one.
The good news? If you've completed Part 4 of our series and have your bank account open, you're already past the hardest part. Now it's time to make that account work for you.
Understanding Regional Differences: Aomori City vs. Rural Aomori
One of the most important things I've learned living in both Aomori City and the countryside is this: Japan is not one monolithic country when it comes to utilities. Costs, availability, and processes vary dramatically depending on where you are.
In Aomori City, you'll find multiple utility providers, competitive pricing, and established infrastructure that makes setup relatively straightforward. But here in Hamada, in rural Aomori Prefecture, your options are more limited, prices are sometimes higher (especially for heating), and the process can feel more manual and less digital than what you'd experience in Tokyo or Osaka.
Winter heating costs in Aomori are brutal. I'm not exaggerating. In January and February, my heating bills can reach 30,000 to 40,000 yen per month because we use either kerosene heaters or electric heating systems to survive temperatures that most of Japan doesn't experience. Compare this to someone living in Kyoto or Tokyo, where mild winters mean heating costs of 5,000 to 10,000 yen monthly. This is why understanding your specific region matters before you panic about costs.
If you're moving to a major city like Tokyo, Osaka, or Yokohama, your utility costs will likely be lower and your options more abundant. If you're heading to rural areas or northern prefectures like Aomori, prepare for higher seasonal costs and potentially fewer provider options. But here's the thing: knowing this going in means you can budget properly and take advantage of assistance programs that exist specifically for this reason.
Electricity: Your First Priority
Let's start with electricity because it's often the most critical and the most confusing for Westerners. In Japan, electricity works differently than in many Western countries. The voltage is 100V instead of 110V or 220V, which is why your appliances need to be compatible. But more importantly, the way you set up your electricity account is a process that requires planning.
Finding Your Electricity Provider
In most of Japan, your electricity provider depends on where you live. Historically, there were regional monopolies—Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO), Kansai Electric Power (KEPCO), Tohoku Electric Power (for areas like Aomori), and others. But since deregulation in 2016, you now have options in some areas. You can compare providers and potentially switch to one that offers better rates or renewable energy options.
To find your provider, visit the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy website or ask your real estate agent or landlord. They'll know immediately which company services your area. In Aomori, most residents use Tohoku Electric Power, but it's worth checking to see if alternatives are available in your specific location.
The Application Process
Setting up electricity is remarkably simple compared to what many Westerners expect. You'll need your bank account, your personal seal (inkan), your residence card, and proof of address. If you're renting, your landlord or real estate agent typically handles this. If you're buying or have already moved in, you contact the utility company directly.
Most utility companies now offer online application systems. You can visit their website, fill out your information, and schedule an appointment for a technician to come verify your meter and activate your service. This usually takes about a week. Some companies still prefer phone applications, so be prepared for that possibility.
When you call, have your address ready in both Japanese and English format. Have your visa number and passport number available. The process is usually straightforward, but language barriers can make it feel more complicated than it is. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to ask your landlord, real estate agent, or a local friend to help.
Understanding Your Bill and Payment Method
Your first electricity bill will arrive about a month after setup. In Japan, electricity bills show your usage in kilowatt-hours, the rate per unit, and the total amount due. The bill comes as a paper statement if you prefer, but you can also view it online through most utility company portals.
Here's where your bank account becomes essential: you'll set up automatic bank transfer (jidou furikomi) to pay your bill automatically each month. This is actually preferable to manual payment because it ensures you never miss a payment, and it streamlines the entire process. You authorize the utility company to withdraw the amount from your bank account on a set date each month.
For those on tight budgets, many electricity companies offer payment plans that spread costs over the year, particularly helpful during winter months in northern Japan when bills skyrocket. Ask about this option when setting up your account.
Cost Reality and Budget Management
In Aomori City during normal months, expect electricity bills of 8,000 to 15,000 yen. During winter, this can jump to 20,000 to 30,000 yen or more if you use electric heating. In summer, air conditioning can push bills to 12,000 to 18,000 yen. Compare this to Tokyo, where year-round costs average 8,000 to 12,000 yen monthly, and you see the regional difference clearly.
The key to managing electricity costs is understanding your usage patterns and making intentional choices about heating and cooling. Many Westerners are shocked by how cold Japanese homes stay in winter—insulation standards in Japan are lower than in North America or Europe, and many Japanese people simply wear more layers rather than heating their entire home to Western comfort levels.
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Budget-Conscious Westerners
This is where things get really interesting. JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) offers support programs for foreigners moving to Japan, including information about utility assistance and energy-efficient living options. Additionally, some prefectures and municipalities offer subsidies for low-income foreigners to help with utility costs. Aomori Prefecture, in particular, has programs designed to help new residents and foreign workers manage the high heating costs that come with our climate.
Research your specific municipality's "fukushi" (welfare) offerings. Contact your local ward office (kuyakusho) or municipal government office and ask about "gaikokujin mukete no enjo puroguramu" (assistance programs for foreigners). Many local governments, especially in rural areas trying to attract and retain foreign residents, have utility assistance programs that can reduce your costs significantly.
Additionally, some neighborhoods and communities offer shared heating systems or group purchasing agreements that lower energy costs. Ask neighbors or your local community center about what's available in your area.
Water: Often Overlooked, Always Essential
Water is the utility that many Westerners overlook until they get their first bill and realize they're being charged for something they expected to be free. In Japan, water is not free. You pay for it based on usage, and the costs vary dramatically by region.
Setting Up Your Water Account
Like electricity, setting up water service requires contacting your local water utility company. In most areas, this is a municipal service, so you'll contact your city or town's water department directly. Some larger apartment buildings have a single water meter for the entire building, but if you're renting a house or have your own meter, you'll need to set up an individual account.
The process is similar to electricity: provide your address, bank account information, personal seal, and resident card. They'll assign you a meter number and schedule a time to verify everything is working. Unlike electricity, water issues are usually less urgent (unless there's a problem), so this setup tends to be more relaxed.
Understanding Your Usage and Bill
Your water bill appears monthly or every two months, depending on your municipality. It shows your usage in cubic meters and charges for both water supply and sewage. This is important: you'll pay twice for water in Japan—once for the water coming in, and again for the sewage going out.
In Aomori, average water bills run 3,000 to 5,000 yen per month for a single person or couple. Families with children or those who use more water (gardens, frequent showers) will see higher bills. Compare this to Tokyo, where water is slightly cheaper at 2,500 to 4,000 yen monthly, and you understand another component of rural living costs.
Practical Water Conservation Tips
Coming from North America or Europe, you might be accustomed to long showers and abundant water use. In Japan, especially in regions where water resources are limited, there's a cultural expectation of water conservation. Most Japanese people take short showers and reuse their bathwater for cleaning purposes or watering plants.
One practical tip: many Japanese families fill their bathtub once for the evening, and multiple family members use the same water sequentially. This is normal and culturally accepted. If you're living with Japanese roommates or family, you'll quickly learn this practice.
Additionally, Japanese toilets often have two flush buttons—one for liquid waste (small flush, less water) and one for solid waste (full flush). Using the correct button saves water and money.
Water Quality and Safety
Japan has excellent water quality standards. Tap water in most cities and towns is safe to drink directly without filtering. This is one of the things I appreciate most about living here—you can simply turn on the tap and drink. In rural areas like my home in Hamada, water quality is also excellent, drawn from local sources and rigorously tested.
Some Westerners prefer filtered water for taste reasons, which is fine. Water filters are inexpensive and widely available at convenience stores. But there's no safety concern with tap water in Japan. This is different from many countries and is actually a significant advantage to living here.
Heating and Cooling: Understanding Seasonal Expenses
In Aomori, heating and cooling costs represent the biggest surprise for new residents. Winter heating can triple your utility bills, and many Westerners don't plan for this properly. Let me break down what you need to know.
Winter Heating Options
Japanese homes typically offer several heating options: central heating systems, individual room heaters, kerosene heaters, or gas heaters. The choice depends on your living situation and budget.
Central heating is the most convenient but often the most expensive. If your apartment or house has it, you'll simply turn it on and manage the temperature through your thermostat, paying through your electricity or gas bill. Many older Japanese homes don't have central heating, which surprises Westerners who grew up with whole-home heating systems.
Individual room heaters are common in Japan. These are small electric heaters that warm a single room, allowing you to heat only the spaces you're using rather than heating an entire house. This is more economical and very practical. A good electric room heater costs 3,000 to 8,000 yen and uses about 1,000 watts.
Kerosene heaters are traditional in northern Japan. They burn kerosene fuel and provide strong, efficient heating. However, they require regular refueling, and kerosene must be purchased from gas stations or delivery services. In winter, kerosene costs about 150 to 200 yen per liter in Aomori, and a typical heater uses one liter every two to three days of continuous use. The trade-off: kerosene heaters often provide better heating than electric options, but require more active management.
Summer Cooling
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, especially in Aomori where we experience intense humidity despite relatively moderate temperatures. Air conditioning isn't a luxury here—it's often necessary for comfort and health, particularly for elderly people and young children.
A basic room air conditioning unit costs 40,000 to 80,000 yen to purchase and install. Monthly summer cooling costs in Aomori typically run 10,000 to 18,000 yen if you run your air conditioner regularly. In Tokyo, where summer temperatures are similar but more people use AC, average summer cooling costs are 12,000 to 15,000 yen.
One practical tip: set your air conditioning to 26 to 28 degrees Celsius (79 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the standard temperature recommendation in Japan and reduces energy consumption significantly compared to what many Westerners prefer (typically 20 to 22 degrees).
Gas Services
Some areas, particularly urban regions, offer piped natural gas for heating and cooking. If your location has gas service, you'll need to set up a gas account separately from electricity and water. The process is similar: contact your local gas company, provide your bank account information, and they'll schedule installation.
Gas bills in Aomori average 5,000 to 8,000 yen monthly in summer and 15,000 to 25,000 yen in winter if you use gas for heating. Some people use a combination—gas for heating and hot water, electricity for cooking appliances.
Internet: Your Connection to Home and Work
In modern Japan, setting up internet is often as important as setting up electricity. Your internet connection is how you'll stay connected to family back home, work remotely, stream content, and navigate daily life online.
Internet Provider Options
Japan has excellent internet infrastructure with multiple providers offering fast, reliable service. Major providers include NTT (fiber optic internet through their Flet's service or the newer "Dark Fiber" options), au (KDDI), Softbank, and various regional providers. In Aomori, all these options are available in Aomori City, though rural areas might have fewer choices.
Fiber optic internet (FTTH—Fiber To The Home) is the gold standard, offering speeds of 1 Gbps and above. Costs range from 5,000 to 7,000 yen monthly. ADSL is older and slower but cheaper (around 3,000 yen monthly), though it's becoming less common. Mobile hotspots are available but typically more expensive for consistent home use.
The Application and Installation Process
Apply directly through your chosen provider's website or by visiting a retail location. You'll need your residence card, bank account information, and personal seal. The provider will schedule installation, which usually takes one to two weeks.
A technician will come to your home, run a cable from the street connection into your residence, set up your modem and router, and configure everything. The entire process typically takes one to two hours. This is where having Japanese language ability (or a friend who speaks Japanese) helps, but many technicians in major areas speak basic English.
Cost and Contract Considerations
Internet contracts in Japan typically require a commitment period, often two years. Early termination incurs penalties of 8,000 to 15,000 yen. This is standard and applies to both Japanese citizens and foreigners, so understand the contract terms before signing. Most providers offer flexibility to change or cancel after the contract period ends.
Some providers offer bundled packages combining internet with mobile phone service or television, which can reduce overall costs. Ask about these options when applying.
Special Assistance Programs for Budget-Conscious Westerners
This is the most important section for many people. If you're moving to Japan on a limited income or budget, there are legitimate assistance programs that can significantly reduce your utility costs.
JETRO and Municipal Support Programs
JETRO provides comprehensive support for foreign residents in Japan, including information about utility assistance. Their website and local offices maintain updated lists of municipal programs offering subsidies or reduced rates for low-income foreigners. Many prefectures and municipalities actively recruit foreign workers and residents by offering financial incentives, including utility assistance.
Contact your local city hall or ward office (kuyakusho) and specifically ask about "gaikokujin mukete no enjo" (support for foreigners). Aomori Prefecture, for example, offers programs specifically designed to help foreign residents manage heating costs during brutal winters.
Free and Low-Cost WiFi Options
If internet costs are prohibitive, numerous free WiFi networks exist throughout Japan. Most convenience stores (Convenience Stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson) offer free WiFi. Many libraries, municipal community centers, and parks also provide free internet access. While not ideal for working from home full-time, these options can significantly reduce your internet expenses if you supplement them with free WiFi access in public spaces.
Community Programs and Shared Utilities
In some communities, particularly in rural areas trying to attract foreign residents, communal heating systems or group purchasing agreements for utilities can reduce costs. Ask your neighbors, local community center, or municipal office about what's available. Many rural communities organize bulk purchases of heating fuel or energy in winter, which lowers per-unit costs for all participants.
Religious and Cultural Organizations
Various religious organizations and cultural centers serving foreign communities in Japan often provide information about utility assistance or can connect you with local support networks. These aren't always widely advertised, but asking around in your community often reveals helpful resources.
Practical Setup Timeline and Checklist
Here's a realistic timeline for someone who has just opened their bank account and is ready to set up utilities:
Week One: Contact electricity provider, water utility, and internet provider. Schedule installation appointments. For heating needs, identify which option suits your situation.
Week Two: Electricity technician visits and activates service. Water department verifies your meter. Begin using electricity and water immediately.
Week Three: Internet installation occurs. Start setting up automatic bill payments (jidou furikomi) with your bank account.
Week Four: First bills begin arriving. Verify that automatic payments are functioning correctly. Contact providers if any issues arise.
For heating and cooling, these typically don't require utility company involvement—you either purchase and install equipment yourself or arrange installation separately. Plan these purchases based on seasonal needs.
Common Mistakes Westerners Make (and How to Avoid Them)
After helping numerous Westerners through this process, I've noticed consistent mistakes that create unnecessary stress.
Mistake One: Waiting Too Long to Set Up Utilities Many Westerners delay utility setup thinking they'll "figure it out later." Meanwhile, they're living without reliable electricity or water. Don't do this. Set up utilities within your first week of arriving.
Mistake Two: Not Understanding Regional Cost Differences People compare electricity bills with a friend in Tokyo and panic that they're being overcharged in Aomori, when actually regional differences are simply the reality. Understand your specific region's costs before panicking.
Mistake Three: Trying to Live Like They're Back Home Heating an entire house to 22 degrees Celsius in winter, taking hour-long hot showers daily, and running air conditioning at maximum power will devastate your budget in Japan. Adapt to local living standards, which are more energy-efficient by design.
Mistake Four: Not Researching Assistance Programs Too many budget-conscious Westerners struggle with utility costs when assistance programs exist specifically for them. Do the research. Contact your municipal government. Ask JETRO. These resources exist because Japan actively wants to support foreign residents.
Mistake Five: Assuming English Support While major providers in urban areas often have English-speaking staff, rural areas and some utilities might not. If language is a barrier, ask your landlord, real estate agent, or a local friend to help with initial setup. This one phone call or office visit can save you weeks of confusion.
Moving Forward: Making Your House Feel Like Home
Setting up utilities transforms a physical space into an actual home. It's the moment when you stop visiting Japan and start living here. For me, sitting in my Hamada home with reliable electricity, water, heating in winter, and internet connecting me to family around the world makes all the bureaucratic hassle completely worthwhile.
The process might feel overwhelming initially, but it's straightforward once you understand how it works. Your newly opened bank account, which we discussed in Part 4 of this series, is the foundation. Your utilities are the infrastructure that makes daily life possible.
In the next part of our Banking in Japan series, we'll discuss managing your money once utilities are set up—budgeting, saving, and understanding the financial landscape as a foreigner living and working in Japan. But for now, focus on getting these utilities activated. Everything else flows from here.
Remember: you're not alone in this process. Millions of people have moved to Japan and successfully set up their utilities. The systems might feel different, but they're logical once you understand them. And if you hit obstacles, local support networks and assistance programs exist to help you succeed.
About the Author
Zakari Watto is the founder of JapanInsider, a leading business consultant and professional writing service dedicated to helping Westerners understand Japanese culture, business practices, and lifestyle. With over 15 years of cross-cultural communication expertise, Zakari brings authentic perspective from his experience as a native Japanese homeowner and business professional. Having navigated the complexities of Japanese utilities, real estate, business practices, and daily life from both insider and guide perspectives, Zakari combines practical knowledge with genuine empathy for the unique challenges Westerners face when relocating to Japan.
Through JapanInsider, Zakari bridges the cultural gap that often creates confusion and anxiety for foreigners entering the Japanese market. His work spans consulting for international businesses, professional writing on Japanese business culture, and educational content helping individuals successfully integrate into Japanese society.
Contact Zakari Watto & JapanInsider:
Website: www.japaninsider.org Email: info@japaninsider.org LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/JapanInsider
Connect with JapanInsider for consulting services, professional writing, and personalized guidance on navigating Japanese business and lifestyle.
Key References and Resources
- JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) — jetro.go.jp — Comprehensive support and resources for foreign residents and business professionals in Japan
- Agency for Natural Resources and Energy — enecho.meti.go.jp — Official government information on electricity providers and energy options
- Tohoku Electric Power — tohoku-epco.co.jp — Regional electricity provider for Aomori and surrounding prefectures
- NTT East (Flet's Internet) — ntt-east.co.jp — Major internet service provider with nationwide coverage
- Japan Guide — japan-guide.com — Practical guides for living in Japan, including utility setup
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Ward Offices — metro.tokyo.lg.jp — Example of municipal resources for utility setup and assistance programs
- Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) — jnto.go.jp — Broader resources for foreign residents
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) — mofa.go.jp — Official government information for residents and visa holders
- Aomori Prefecture Official Website — pref.aomori.lg.jp — Regional information specific to Aomori utilities and assistance programs
- International Residents Services Centers — Often located in major cities, offering practical support in multiple languages
- Kerosene Price Information — enecho.meti.go.jp — Real-time kerosene pricing and supplier information
- IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) — Information on electrical standards and safety in different countries
- Local Community Centers and Ward Offices — Various municipalities throughout Japan
- Expat Blogs and Community Forums — Anecdotal but valuable insights from people who have gone through the process
- NTT Communications and Softbank — Alternative internet providers with regional coverage
- Japanese Red Cross and International Organizations — Sometimes offer practical support including utility guidance for refugees and newcomers
- University International Student Centers — Often maintain helpful resources for all foreign residents, not just students
- Facebook Groups for Foreign Residents in Japan — Community-driven support and real-world experiences
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